AC cleaning myth busted

What happens to air conditioners in winter?

Think your AC's off-season is worry-free? Think again! You might think that as long as the AC is off, it isn’t a concern. But here’s the truth: even when your AC isn’t running, it continues to collect dust, debris, and even mold in the vents, filters, and ducts. These contaminants settle in the system, and when it’s eventually switched back on, they can spread through your home, affecting air quality and causing potential health issues. This is why it's so important to give your air conditioner a proper inspection and maintenance during the colder months. Just as you prepare your home for winter, it's crucial to schedule an AC inspection and take the necessary steps for proper AC maintenance to ensure your system runs smoothly when warmer weather returns. A thorough HVAC winter inspection can help protect your air conditioner from cold conditions, improve indoor air quality, and prevent winter allergies, creating a healthier and more comfortable living environment.

5 signs your AC needs attention even when it's not running

1. Reduced indoor air quality: Increased dust, musty smells, or respiratory issues (like coughing or sneezing) can signal clogged filters or mold buildup leading to poor indoor air quality.
2. Strange odors: Musty or stale smells coming from your vents could indicate a clogged filter, allowing mold or bacteria to grow inside.
3. Unusual noises: This could be caused by accumulated debris in the system, dust build-up, and mold that disrupts the airflow or causes parts to work harder than usual.
4. Uneven cooling or airflow: If some rooms are colder than others when you turn your AC back on, it could be due to dust and debris that have settled in the ducts or filters while the system was off, causing blockages or uneven airflow.
5. Increased energy bills: When your AC is off, dust accumulates, and if left unchecked, it can clog filters and ducts, forcing your system to work harder when it’s turned back on. This inefficiency can result in a sudden spike in your energy bills, even if you're using the system less.
   

Winter AC care tips: How to protect your system during the cold season

Now that you understand the importance of winter AC care, let’s look at some simple steps you can take to ensure your system stays in optimal condition throughout the off-season.

1. Adjust your thermostat settings for winter

Updating your thermostat settings during winter is an important step in optimizing both your comfort and energy efficiency. Since you're using your AC less frequently during the colder months, it's essential to adjust the thermostat to a more energy-efficient setting. If your thermostat is outdated or not programmable, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat, which allows you to easily control and schedule temperatures, ensuring that your system isn't working harder than necessary during the winter months. This simple adjustment helps reduce unnecessary wear on your system, leading to lower energy bills and better long-term performance.

2. Winter AC inspection

Even if you're not using your air conditioner regularly, a professional inspection can help identify potential issues before they become major problems. Technicians will check the system for any signs of wear, clean the components, and inspect key parts like the coils, refrigerant levels, and the thermostat. By addressing minor issues during the off-season, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and ensure your AC operates efficiently when you need it most.



3. AC Cleaning

As winter sets in, many homeowners overlook the importance of AC maintenance, assuming that the cold weather won’t impact their air conditioning system. While the cold itself won’t harm the AC compressor, this buildup can lead to poor airflow and reduced efficiency when the system is eventually turned back on. To ensure your air conditioner is ready for the warmer months ahead, it's essential to clean the AC unit regularly, removing any debris and dust that may have been collected during the winter. 

Your air conditioner is an essential part of maintaining a comfortable and healthy home, and it deserves attention year-round, not just during the hot months. If you’re unsure about the condition of your AC system or need help with a winter inspection, our team of experts is here to assist you. Contact us today for a FREE AC inspection and make sure your home’s air stays fresh and clean all year long!